Edexcel GCSE English Literature

My Last Duchess

Edexcel GCSE English Literature revision on My Last Duchess. Aligned to the Edexcel GCSE English Literature 1ET0 specification. This bank has 14 practice questions on this topic.

About this topic

FERRARA That's my last Duchess painted on the wall, Looking as if she were alive. I call That piece a wonder, now: Frà Pandolf's hands Worked busily a day, and there she stands. Will't please you sit and look at her? I said "Frà Pandolf" by design, for never read Strangers like you that pictured countenance, The depth and passion of its earnest glance, But to myself they turned (since none puts by The curtain I have drawn for you, but I) And seemed as they would ask me, if they durst, How such a glance came there; so, not the first Are you to turn and ask thus. Sir, 'twas not Her husband's presence only, called that spot Of joy into the Duchess' cheek: perhaps Frà Pandolf chanced to say, "Her mantle laps Over my lady's wrist too much," or "Paint Must never hope to reproduce the faint Half-flush that dies along her throat:" such stuff Was courtesy, she thought, and cause enough For calling up that spot of joy. She had A heart—how shall I say?—too soon made …

Sample questions (3 of 14)

  1. Question 1

    Who says: 'That's my last Duchess painted on the wall'?

    • A) The Duke
    • B) The Envoy
    • C) The Duchess
    • D) Fra Pandolf
    Show answer

    Answer: The Duke

    The poem is a dramatic monologue spoken entirely by the Duke of Ferrara. He is showing his visitor a portrait of his deceased wife.

  2. Question 2

    What literary technique does the writer use in: 'Notice Neptune, though, / Taming a sea-horse'?

    • A) Metaphor
    • B) Simile
    • C) Pathetic fallacy
    • D) Onomatopoeia
    Show answer

    Answer: Metaphor

    The taming of the sea-horse is a metaphor for the Duke's need for dominance and control. He compares his own behaviour towards his wife to Neptune's act of taming a wild creature.

  3. Question 3

    What does this line reveal about the Duke: 'I gave commands; / Then all smiles stopped together'?

    • A) He is a grieving widower
    • B) He is a ruthless, controlling tyrant
    • C) He is a compassionate patron of the arts
    • D) He is deeply in love with his wife
    Show answer

    Answer: He is a ruthless, controlling tyrant

    The phrase 'all smiles stopped' is a chilling euphemism for death. It shows that the Duke prioritised his pride and control over his wife's life.

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